Wales rugby star and qualified doctor Jamie Roberts joins NHS frontline for coronavirus fight

WALES rugby star and qualified doctor Jamie Roberts has started working for the National Health Service to help the fight against coronavirus.

With sport cancelled indefinitely, the 94-cap centre has stepped in as a clinical innovation fellow – a role which will see him working in Cardiff in a motivational and communications capacity.

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Roberts is currently contracted to South African side Stormers, but is now back in Wales where he graduated as a doctor.

The Wales ace wants to help the Cardiff and Vale Health board in a time of crisis.

Roberts said: “I have spent the last three months living in Cape Town, but obviously rugby out there was postponed indefinitely so I came back to the UK.

“I just thought how can I play my part in this challenge we are all facing?

"My role here is to help motivate staff, help the communications team make sure we get the right messages across to the public, and playing my role within an unbelievable team.

“I was never aware of exactly what goes on behind the scenes. The energy and enthusiasm is palpable and that’s inspiring during a time like this.

“So whatever I can do to help our staff at HQ and in the front line as well I am keen to play my part. With a medical background as well, I hope that helps.”